Mechanism and Explanation; Critical Realist Explanation and the Status of Causal Mechanisms

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Assistant Professor of Sociology, Institute for Cultural, Social and Civilizational Studies, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Critical realism, as an approach within the philosophy of science, positions itself against both positivist and postmodernist disputes by advocating for the critical and emancipatory nature of scientific and philosophical inquiry. This article seeks to answer two central questions: What is the nature of explanation in critical realism? And what role do generative mechanisms play in critical realist explanation? Findings indicate that, from this perspective, reality possesses a stratified nature, with each layer of reality manifesting under specific conditions and being analyzable within distinct types of open or closed systems. Moreover, studying each layer necessitates particular methodological approaches. These layers are not only the ultimate focus of investigation in critical realist research but also play a pivotal role in articulating the various dimensions of reality. Ontologically, while these mechanisms remain hidden and are not easily accessible to the researcher, they constitute the fundamental causal structures underlying events. Furthermore, each layer of reality entails specific generative causal mechanisms that enable the actualization of that layer. Critical realist explanation does not merely aim to identify causal relationships between variables; rather, it seeks to uncover and recognize the underlying generative causal mechanisms. Additionally, this school of thought distinguishes between scientific laws and the regularities or sequences of events. In conclusion, the article emphasizes that critical realism should be viewed as a lens, not merely a tool. Additionally, this school of thought distinguishes between scientific laws and the regularities or sequences of events. In conclusion, the article emphasizes that critical realism should be viewed as a lens, not merely a tool.

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References

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